Elderflower syrup Scandinavian style

Ingredients for 1 servings:

• 2 liters of water
• 2 kg sugar
• 40 g citric acid and, if necessary, sodium benzoate (E211)
• 20 elderflower heads
• 2 lemons

Instructions

Working time approx. 20 minutes; Total time approx. 20 minutes

Fläderdryck, Hyldeblomstdrik, makes approx. 4 liters

Heat water, sugar, and citric acid in a saucepan until the liquid is crystal clear. If you can get hold of it, add 1 teaspoon of Atamon (available in any Danish supermarket); but this is not necessary. Meanwhile, over a 5-liter container, cut the blossoms off the stalks so that as little green as possible remains. Cut the lemons into thin slices and place them over the blossoms. Pour the hot sugar water over the stalks. Stir well so that the stalks and lemon slices are soaked in the liquid. Allow to cool and close the container. Let it steep in a cool place for five days, stirring frequently. After five days, filter the syrup (if necessary through a cheesecloth or kitchen towel—the liquid should be as clear as possible) and bring to a boil. Pour the boiling liquid into hot-rinsed bottles and seal the bottles immediately.